The KTM 890 Adventure is not just a motorcycle; it’s a testament to the Austrian manufacturer’s relentless pursuit of blending performance, versatility, and adventure into a single package. Launched as the successor to the KTM 790 Adventure, this middleweight adventure tourer has carved a niche for itself in the fiercely competitive adventure motorcycle segment. Unveiled globally in 2021, the 890 Adventure builds on KTM’s “Ready to Race” philosophy, offering riders a machine that thrives equally on paved highways and rugged off-road trails. With an upgraded engine, enhanced electronics, and a design tailored for long-distance exploration, it appeals to adrenaline junkies and travel enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re navigating the chaotic streets of metro cities like Delhi or Mumbai or conquering the rocky terrains of the Himalayas, the KTM 890 Adventure promises an exhilarating ride. Available in multiple variants—the standard 890 Adventure and the more off-road-focused 890 Adventure R—this motorcycle caters to diverse riding preferences. In this detailed overview, we’ll explore its technical prowess, pricing in Indian metro cities, and how it stacks up against its rivals.
Technical Specifications
The KTM 890 Adventure boasts a robust set of specifications that underscore its capability as a dual-sport motorcycle. Below is a tabular breakdown of its key technical details, compiled from BikeDekho, ZigWheels, BikeWale, and KTM’s official site, verified for accuracy.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 889 cc |
| Max Power | 104.6 PS @ 8000 rpm (Standard) / 105 PS (R) |
| Max Torque | 100 Nm @ 6500 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 90.7 mm x 68.8 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 13.5:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection (Bosch EMS with Ride-by-Wire) |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual with Slipper Clutch |
| Frame | Chromium-Molybdenum Steel Trellis Frame |
| Front Suspension | WP APEX 43 mm USD Fork, 200 mm travel (Standard) / WP XPLOR 48 mm, 240 mm travel (R) |
| Rear Suspension | WP APEX Monoshock, 200 mm travel (Standard) / WP XPLOR PDS, 240 mm travel (R) |
| Front Brake | Dual 320 mm Discs with 4-piston Calipers |
| Rear Brake | Single 260 mm Disc with 2-piston Caliper |
| ABS | Bosch 9.1 MP Cornering ABS (Switchable) |
| Wheel Size | Front: 21-inch, Rear: 18-inch (Spoke Wheels) |
| Tyres | Pirelli Scorpion STR (Standard) / Mitas Enduro Trail (R) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 Litres |
| Ground Clearance | 233 mm (Standard) / 263 mm (R) |
| Seat Height | 850 mm (Standard) / 860 mm (R) |
| Dry Weight | 196 kg (Standard) / 189 kg (R) |
| Mileage | 22.2 kmpl (ARAI Certified) |
| Electronics | MTC, Ride Modes (Road, Rain, Offroad, Rally), TFT Display, Optional Cruise Control |
Variants
The KTM 890 Adventure is offered in two primary variants, each designed to cater to specific riding styles:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| KTM 890 Adventure | The base model, focused on versatility for both on-road touring and moderate off-road use. Features Pirelli Scorpion STR tyres and a more road-oriented suspension setup. |
| KTM 890 Adventure R | The off-road-centric variant with enhanced suspension (WP XPLOR), higher ground clearance, and Mitas Enduro Trail tyres. Ideal for rugged terrains and rally-inspired adventures. |
Note: There have been mentions of a limited-edition KTM 890 Adventure R Rally globally, but as of March 2025, it’s not confirmed for the Indian market.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the KTM 890 Adventure varies across Indian metro cities due to differences in ex-showroom costs, registration fees, insurance, and road taxes. Below is an estimated on-road price table based on data from BikeWale, ZigWheels, and local dealer insights, accurate as of March 3, 2025.
| City | KTM 890 Adventure (On-Road Price) | KTM 890 Adventure R (On-Road Price) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 14.50 Lakh – ₹ 15.00 Lakh | ₹ 17.50 Lakh – ₹ 18.00 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹ 14.80 Lakh – ₹ 15.30 Lakh | ₹ 17.80 Lakh – ₹ 18.30 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹ 14.70 Lakh – ₹ 15.20 Lakh | ₹ 17.70 Lakh – ₹ 18.20 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹ 14.60 Lakh – ₹ 15.10 Lakh | ₹ 17.60 Lakh – ₹ 18.10 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹ 14.55 Lakh – ₹ 15.05 Lakh | ₹ 17.55 Lakh – ₹ 18.05 Lakh |
Ex-showroom prices: ₹ 13.50 Lakh (Standard) and ₹ 15.80 Lakh (R). Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers and local taxes.
About KTM 890 Adventure
The KTM 890 Adventure stands as a beacon of innovation in the adventure motorcycle segment, blending KTM’s racing pedigree with practical usability. Let’s delve into its design, performance, features, and overall riding experience to understand why it’s a favorite among enthusiasts.
Design and Build Quality
KTM has always been known for its aggressive, rally-inspired aesthetics, and the 890 Adventure is no exception. The motorcycle sports a sharp, angular design with a high front fender, a prominent radiator shroud, and a Dakar Rally-inspired front end on the R variant. The Chromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame not only provides structural rigidity but also keeps the weight low, enhancing agility. The standard model weighs around 196 kg (dry), while the R variant shaves off a few kilos to 189 kg, making it one of the lighter options in its class. The 20-litre fuel tank is strategically positioned to lower the center of gravity, improving stability on tricky terrains. Available in two color options—White and Orange—the 890 Adventure exudes a bold, rugged charm that turns heads whether parked in a metro city garage or tackling a mountain trail.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the KTM 890 Adventure lies an 889 cc parallel-twin engine, a refined evolution of the 799 cc unit found in the 790 Adventure. This liquid-cooled, DOHC motor produces 104.6 PS in the standard variant and a slightly higher 105 PS in the R model, paired with a robust 100 Nm of torque. The increased displacement offers a noticeable boost in low- and mid-range grunt, making it ideal for both highway cruising and technical off-road maneuvers. The ride-by-wire throttle ensures precise power delivery, while the 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch provides seamless shifts and reduces rear-wheel chatter during aggressive downshifts. Riders can expect a top speed exceeding 200 kmph on open roads, though KTM prioritizes torque over outright speed, ensuring the bike excels in varied conditions. Fuel efficiency, rated at 22.2 kmpl (ARAI), is respectable for a middleweight ADV, offering a range of over 400 km on a full tank—perfect for long-distance tours across India’s diverse landscapes.
Suspension and Handling
The KTM 890 Adventure’s suspension setup is where it truly shines, offering a balance of comfort and capability. The standard variant features a WP APEX 43 mm upside-down fork with 200 mm of travel up front and a matching WP APEX monoshock at the rear. This setup is adjustable for rebound and compression, allowing riders to fine-tune it for city streets or light off-road trails. The R variant takes it up a notch with a WP XPLOR 48 mm fork offering 240 mm of travel and a WP XPLOR PDS monoshock with the same travel, designed for hardcore off-road adventures. The higher ground clearance of 263 mm on the R (versus 233 mm on the standard) ensures it can tackle rocks, ruts, and uneven surfaces with ease. Paired with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoke wheels, the 890 Adventure delivers exceptional handling, whether carving corners on asphalt or sliding through gravel.
Braking and Tyres
Safety is paramount, and the 890 Adventure doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with dual 320 mm front discs with 4-piston calipers and a 260 mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper, offering strong, progressive stopping power. The Bosch 9.1 MP Cornering ABS is switchable, with an Offroad mode that deactivates rear ABS and reduces front intervention, giving riders more control in the dirt. The standard model rolls on Pirelli Scorpion STR tyres, which strike a balance between on-road grip and off-road traction. The R variant, however, opts for Mitas Enduro Trail tyres, optimized for durability and performance on challenging trails. This tyre choice reflects KTM’s intent to cater to different riding styles, ensuring both variants excel in their respective domains.
Electronics and Rider Aids
The 890 Adventure is packed with cutting-edge electronics, making it one of the most tech-laden bikes in its segment. A 5-inch full-color TFT display serves as the command center, offering clear visibility of speed, gear position, fuel level, and ride mode settings. Speaking of ride modes, the bike offers four options: Road, Rain, Offroad, and an optional Rally mode (available with a paid upgrade). These modes adjust throttle response, traction control, and ABS settings to suit the terrain. The Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC) uses a 6D Inertial Measurement Unit to manage wheel slip and prevent front wheel lift, enhancing stability. Optional extras like Cruise Control and Quickshifter+ further elevate the touring experience, while a Demo Mode lets riders test these features for the first 1500 km. Smartphone connectivity via the KTM My Ride app adds a modern touch, allowing navigation and call management on the go.
Ergonomics and Comfort
For a bike designed for adventure, comfort is critical, and the 890 Adventure delivers. The two-piece seat is sculpted for both rider and pillion comfort, with a height of 850 mm (Standard) or 860 mm (R)—adjustable via optional accessories. The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and footpeg placement offer excellent control and reduce fatigue on long rides. The redesigned windshield (shorter on the R) provides decent wind protection without obstructing the rider’s view when standing—a boon for off-road enthusiasts. KTM also offers a range of PowerParts, including a single-piece Rally seat and luggage options, to customize the bike for extended journeys.
Practicality and Versatility
The 890 Adventure’s 20-litre fuel tank ensures fewer fuel stops, a boon for riders exploring remote areas. Its lightweight construction and low center of gravity make it surprisingly nimble for its size, whether threading through Mumbai traffic or climbing Leh’s rocky passes. The bike’s rugged build—reinforced by forged aluminum brackets under the fairing—ensures durability, while the high front fender keeps the wheel spinning freely in mud or sand. With a payload capacity that supports luggage or a pillion, it’s a practical choice for solo adventurers and couples alike.
Close Competitors
The KTM 890 Adventure faces stiff competition in the middleweight adventure segment. Here’s how it compares to its closest rivals:
- BMW F 850 GS
- Engine: 853 cc, 95 PS, 92 Nm
- Price: ₹ 13.75 Lakh – ₹ 14.50 Lakh (on-road)
- Strengths: Premium build, refined electronics, smoother on-road performance.
- Weaknesses: Less off-road capability, higher price point.
- Comparison: The BMW edges out in comfort and brand appeal but lacks the KTM’s raw off-road prowess and value-for-money proposition.
- Honda XL750 Transalp
- Engine: 755 cc, 91 PS, 75 Nm
- Price: ₹ 12.50 Lakh – ₹ 13.00 Lakh (on-road)
- Strengths: Reliability, lighter weight (208 kg wet), lower seat height.
- Weaknesses: Less power, basic electronics compared to KTM.
- Comparison: The Transalp is a solid all-rounder but can’t match the 890 Adventure’s performance or off-road tech.
- Triumph Tiger 900 Rally
- Engine: 888 cc, 95 PS, 87 Nm
- Price: ₹ 14.50 Lakh – ₹ 15.50 Lakh (on-road)
- Strengths: Smooth triple-cylinder engine, superior on-road dynamics.
- Weaknesses: Higher cost, less aggressive off-road focus.
- Comparison: The Tiger excels on highways but falls short of the KTM’s off-road agility and electronics suite.
The KTM 890 Adventure holds its own with a blend of power, versatility, and affordability, making it a top pick for riders who crave adventure without compromise.
Final Thoughts!
The KTM 890 Adventure is more than just a motorcycle—it’s a gateway to exploration. With its potent 889 cc engine, advanced electronics, and rugged design, it caters to riders who demand performance on and off the beaten path. The standard variant offers a versatile package for touring and light off-roading, while the R variant pushes the boundaries of what a middleweight ADV can achieve in the wild. Priced competitively in metro cities, it undercuts premium rivals like the BMW F 850 GS while delivering superior off-road capability. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a globe-trotting adventurer, the 890 Adventure’s blend of power, comfort, and technology makes it a standout choice in 2025’s adventure motorcycle landscape.
